The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) declared 2017 to be the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development and all together, we hope to chart the course for a new direction in the travel and tourism industry, one that leads to clean beaches, forests and parks; that fosters local economic development and that results in the protection and longevity of cultural traditions and architectural treasures.

Our individual efforts might be small but we believe every little helps and that our efforts on a local level (for us by promoting sustainable travel on the Camino and Northern Spain and following our strict Sustainability Pledge whenever making any purchase or training decision) can make a real difference.

In this spirit, we would like to invite you to:

1) read Sustainable Travel International’s general recommendations for better travel below and follow these principles while traveling on the Camino de Santiago

One of the most remarkable aspects of travel is that each new adventure represents an opportunity to positively impact the people and places we visit. But, sometimes it can be difficult to know what the best choices are or how YOU can make a difference.

We hope the following tips enrich your travel experiences and inspire you to make a positive impact and impression on the people you meet and conserve and protect the places you visit.

Consider Your Route. Visit popular places at off-peak times and travel popular itineraries in reverse order. Seek unique experiences at lesser known attractions.

Mind Your Resources. Help conserve the natural resources you’ve come to visit by following the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle during your travels and when you return home. Support tour operators and service providers that incorporate sustainable tourism practices in their operations.

Respect Local Cultures. Be aware that you may encounter cultural differences. Learn some basic phrases in the local language, and research local customs, social norms, and environmental issues before you arrive.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe. Learn about local weather conditions, business hours, legal matters, and dangers and annoyances before venturing out. Consider hiring a local guide.

Honor Protected Areas. Follow advisories and regulations when visiting protected areas, and respect the rights of private landowners. Remember the usage fees you pay support local management programs and conservation efforts necessary to protect and maintain these areas.

Keep Wildlife Wild. Maintain a respectful distance, use binoculars and telephoto lenses, refrain from feeding wild animals. Participate in activities that protect wildlife and their habitat and avoid activities that may jeopardize animal welfare. Learn more about Animal Welfare Guidelines from ABTA.

Shop Local. Support the true regional character you’ve come to see by consciously spending your time and money at local businesses with local employees, who offer locally produced food and products, handicrafts, and art. Your dollars will benefit the region, help communities preserve traditions and protect natural resources.

Park the Car. Explore the area by getting out into it—try walking, cycling, or taking public transportation for a portion of your travels. Rent fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicles when a car is necessary.

Give Back. Enhance the value and meaning of your visit by volunteering your time to a local cause or project while you’re in the area. Research and make a financial donation to organizations that support environmental stewardship and community well-being and that generate tangible results.

Leave No Trace. Follow all principles of Leave No Trace—from preparation to preservation. Minimize your impact for the good of everyone.

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Ultreya Tours

Ultreya Tours is a incoming Tour Operator specialized in organizing comprehensive and highly personalized walking tours for groups and solo travelers on the Camino de Santiago. Founded and based in Santiago de Compostela, we know the region of Galicia and the secrets of the Camino by heart. Let us introduce you to our vision of the Camino.
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